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NBC Meet the Press

Meet the Moment: Amanda Gorman on book bans

Feb 10, 2025
Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet and an advocate against racial inequality, discusses the troubling rise of book bans and their impact on marginalized communities. She reflects on her journey of overcoming self-doubt and a speech impediment, emphasizing the importance of representation in literature. Gorman also shares her aspirations for political leadership in 2036, linking her poetic voice to activism and the need for community support in fostering literacy among children.
26:50

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Amanda Gorman emphasizes the transformative power of poetry to inspire unity and resilience during turbulent societal moments.
  • Her book 'Girls on the Rise' seeks to empower young girls by promoting inclusivity, community, and the importance of speaking one's truth.

Deep dives

The Impact of Amanda Gorman's Poetry

Amanda Gorman captured significant attention as the youngest inaugural poet, highlighting the power of poetry in addressing contemporary issues. Her poem 'The Hill We Climb' resonated profoundly due to its reflection on the American experience and collective resilience. Gorman emphasized that she wrote the poem to process her own emotions following the events of January 6th, aiming to connect with others who might feel similarly. The overwhelming positive reception exceeded her expectations, showcasing the capacity of poetry to inspire and unify during turbulent times.

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